Winners will be showcased in the October/November 2014 issue of
Pocono Living Magazine.
Grand Prize - Dinner for two at Marco Antonio’s, Stroudsburg, Pa
Deadline: All submissions must be postmarked or uploaded by August 12,
2014. There is no limit to the number of submissions from one photographer.
For more information visit www.poconomagazines.com
“Bald Eagle” photography by Vinzon Lee

t is the early 1900s. Henry, a Philadelphia lawyer,
has left the city and made his way to the Pocono
Mountains. He is among hundreds, if not thousands,
who seek a respite from city life among the cool, lush
mountains, and the clear, cool lakes and streams. It is the
heyday of the Pocono resort. Train travel has made the trip
to the Poconos from cities like New York and Philadelphia
an easy one. Dozens of grand hotels, cottages, and
boarding houses spring up in the area to accommodate
the increasing number of vacationers. Henry is a frequent
visitor, and has come to appreciate the natural beauty of
this place.

BigIt’s always been about the view
Pocono
BY KAREN LAYTON, EDUCATOR,
NORTHAMPTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE

He now stands on the stark and bald Camelback
Mountain. He has made the trek up the rugged, primitive
route. A thousand feet up. He stands at the summit
among the thick, tangled shrubs, among the huckleberry
and blueberry. He surveys the land. It is scarred. Years
of lumbering; fires, some sparked by trains running
on the rails that skirt
the bottom edge of the
mountain; and the exposure
to harsh weather has left
this flat, barren ridge little
to be desired. But there is
something about this place.
Something that makes Henry
return, again and again.
Something that Henry Cattell
wanted to share.

[left] The little stone cabin, built
in 1908, faces southeast towards
the Delaware Water Gap and the
Kittatinny Ridge. photo: Vinzon Lee.

It was during this time, that Henry Cattell decided to
commission local masons to build a stone cabin at the
summit of Camelback. So why would Cattell build a cabin
on this desolate land? Anyone who has visited this place
might answer this question with simply- “The view.” In
the early 1900s, visitors who braved the rigorous climb to
the summit were rewarded with a spectacular 360 degree
view of the surrounding mountains, and nearby lakes
and communities. From the summit these visitors could
scan the horizon for views of the Pocono Mountains; the
Kittatinny Ridge, including Delaware Water Gap, south to
Wind Gap and Lehigh Gap, and north towards what is now
High Point State Park; and the Catskills Mountains, nearly
100 miles to the north.
By 1908, the cabin was completed and its door left
opened for weary hikers who needed shelter. Many would
stay the night: men would sleep on the main floor, and
women, in the loft area. Some would carve their names
and the dates of their visits in the thick wood beams.
Over a hundred years have passed since Henry Cattell
decided to build that little stone cabin on Camelback
Mountain, and in those 100 years, the contours of
Camelback Mountain, its 2131 foot elevation, and the 360
degree view would be the attributes key to the use and
development of the mountain: as an early tool in local
fire-fighting efforts, as a winter recreation destination, and
finally, as Big Pocono State Park.
Following Henry Cattell’s death, the land and
cabin on Camelback Mountain were acquired by the
Pennsylvania Game Commission, and soon the 360degree view from the mountain’s summit would be
employed in fighting forest fires.

➔

[above] The Big Pocono Fire Tower stands on the summit of Camelback
Mountain at 2131 feet, and has been employed to assist with firefighting efforts since 1921. photo: Friends of Big Pocono.
[below] The view to the South and East from the top of Big Pocono.
photo: Vinzon Lee

Friends of Big Pocono
2014 Schedule of Events
To register for these events, contact Tobyhanna State Park at 570894-8336, or by email tobyhannasp@pa.gov

6/14/14 (Saturday) 8:00-9:30 AM
Nature Walk. Spend the morning on a leisurely stroll along Rim
Road as we follow the nature trail and look for the plant and animals
species that make Big Pocono their home. Afterwards, join us for
the Mountain Laurel Festival. Presented by volunteer interpretive
guide. Meet at parking lot #2, Big Pocono State Park, Tannersville.
FREE program. Registration required.

7/18/14 (Friday) 8:30- 10:30 PM
Moth Magic: We’ll kick off “Winged Things Weekend” with this
unique evening program. The night begins with a brief discussion
of moth species andhabitats. Things get interesting when the sun
goes down and we turn on the spotlights to attract these creatures
of the night. Presented by area moth enthusiast. Meet at parking lot
#2, Big Pocono State Park, Tannersville. Fee $5 adults/$3 under 12.
All proceeds go towards future programming and improvements to
the park. Registration required.

7/19/14 (Saturday) 9:00-11:00 AM
Birds & Butterflies of Big Pocono. Join us for the second part of the
“Winged Things Weekend”. Spend the morning spotting birds that

he summit of Camelback is situated on the
eastern escarpment of the Pocono plateau.
Geologic and glacial events helped to form the
escarpment and eastward prong on which Big Pocono is
located. This prong rises about 1,000 feet above the land to
the north, east, and south. This became the ideal vantage
point from which to spot fires located in area forests and
communities. n 1921, a fire tower was built for just such
a purpose. It was of vital importance in the spotting and
prevention of fires during much of the 20th century. Today,
the Big Pocono Fire Tower remains as one of the few still
manned by Forestry personnel during peak fire season,
and it has been designated as an historical structure by
the National Fire Tower Association.
Several decades later, the elevation and contour of
the mountain would be key in developing yet another usethis one recreational. In 1950, what is now Camelback
Ski Corporation requested the lease of the northern
slope of the mountain to develop a ski resort. Camelback
Ski Corporation still leases the northern slope today,
and continues to expand the resort to offer year-round
activities.
Finally, in 1953, what is now DCNR acquired a 1,306
acre portion of the property to develop Big Pocono State
Park. A year later, with the completion of the scenic 1.4
mile Rim Road that encircles the mountain near the
summit, the addition of parking and picnic areas, and the
construction of restrooms, the park was opened to the
public.
Since the development of Big Pocono State Park, the
Cattell Cabin has been used for a variety of purposes:
as an office, nature museum and education center, and
caretaker’s quarters. Esther Motts manned the fire tower
and the park office for many years, and soon became
known by the name “Pocono Pete”. Esther’s passion for
the park and knowledge of the plants and animals that
inhabited it, became a draw for visitors. Pocono Pete
collected and, through her knowledge of taxidermy,
prepared animals for display in the cases that lined the

The view to the North. photo: Vinzon Lee.
[left] View finders are available at the park for those who want a closer
look. photo: Vinzon Lee.

inside of the cabin. The displays of birds, owls, foxes,
rabbits, and other critters prompted questions from many
local school children and visitors to the park. Pocono Pete
was always at the ready with stories sure to entertain.
Sometime after Pocono Pete’s retirement, the Cattell Cabin
was vacated as an office and nature museum, and it has
since remained closed.
In 2008, the Friends of Big Pocono State Park was
formed, and the re-purposing of the Cattell Cabin became
part of the Friends’ mission. Today, work on the cabin
is bringing it back to its former charm. Beautiful stone
work, and hefty wooden beams that include the etched
names of visitors from the 1900s have been revealed. The
Friends of Big Pocono hope to have the cabin open and
manned by volunteers within the next few years. Displays
of local history and environmental education will once
again be included in the cabin, and visitors will have a
place to ask questions about the park, its trails, the unique
environment and geology, and its history. Perhaps, in the
tradition of Pocono Pete, visitors might also be entertained
with a story or two.
In an effort to return the park to its former status as a
primary view destination, the Department of Conservation
and Natural Resources, park management, Camelback Ski
Corporation, and the volunteers from the Friends of Big
Pocono and the Pocono Outdoor Club, have partnered to
enhance, maintain, and promote Big Pocono State Park. A
number of festivals have been held at Big Pocono in recent
years, including the signature Mountain Laurel Festival
held each June; and educational programming, like the
Starry Nights programs, are once again being offered.
Waysides have been completed and will be installed in
the spring of 2012; new stairs from the view lot to the Rim
Road have been constructed; and new trail construction
and trail maintenance work continue.

7/19/14 (Saturday) 8:40-10 PM
Starry Nights. Experience the night skies above Big Pocono. Get
a telescopic view of the planets Mars, and Saturn, with its moons
and rings, the Hercules Star Cluster, and constellations including
Scorpio, Sagittarius, Cygnus the Swan, (part of the Summer Triangle
with stars Vega, Deneb, and Altair), and the Dippers and Cassiopeia.
Presented by local expert astronomer. Meet at parking lot #2, Big
Pocono State Park, Tannersville. Fee $5 adults/$3 under 12. All
proceeds go towards future programming and improvements to the
park. Registration required.

8/22/14 (Friday) 8:00-9:30 PM
Starry Nights. Experience the night skies above Big Pocono with
telescopic views of Saturn and its rings, the Hercules Star Cluster,
and constellations Scorpio, Sagittarius, the Summer Triangle with
stars Vega, Deneb, and Altair, the Dippers and Cassiopeia. We may
also get a view of the Ring Nebula in Lyra, and the Andromeda
Galaxy! Presented by local expert astronomer. Meet at parking lot
#2, Big Pocono State Park, Tannersville. Fee $5 adults/$3 under 12.
All proceeds go towards future programming and improvements to
the park. Registration required.

9/19/14 (Friday) 7-8:30 PM
Night Hike. Learn to use your senses to experience Big Pocono at
night. While we walk along the Rim Road, we’ll discover the critters
that consider the night to be the best time to be out and about.
Presented by area environmental educator. Meet at parking lot #2,
Big Pocono State Park, Tannersville. FREE program. Registration
required. Contact Tobyhanna State Park at 570-894-8336, or by
email tobyhannasp@pa.gov

Mountain laurel blooms are a big draw for visitors to Big Pocono,
and are the inspiration for the Mountain Laurel Festival, held
each June during the peak bloom season. [background photo:
Marlana Holsten.]
[top right] One of Pocono Pete’s many “critter” cases that lined
the Cattell Cabin, and prompted many questions from local
school children and park visitors. photo: Friends of Big Pocono.
One of the interior rooms in the Cattell Cabin. photo: Vinzon Lee.
The cabin and double rainbow. photo: Friends of Big Pocono.

Readers wishing to donate to the Friends of Big Pocono can
do so through the mail or online at the following:
FOBP, P.O. Box 14, Tannersville, PA, 18372
FOBP Website http://www.friendsofbigpocono.org/

T

oday, the draw of Big Pocono
State Park remains as it has
always been- the spectacular
view. Vacationers from nearby New
York, New Jersey, and Southeastern
Pennsylvania frequently visit Big
Pocono State Park as part of their
Pocono vacation itinerary. Some remain
at the summit and enjoy the view
from the many picnic areas, others
venture on to some of the 8.5 miles of
trails, enjoying the easy-to-challenging
hiking, mountain biking, and horseback
riding. Still others may drive the Rim
Road to see the views from another
vantage point. But no matter where one
goes in the park, or by what mode of
transportation, there is always a good
chance the visitor will be rewarded with
a spectacular view.

Celebrating Our
70th Year in
Business -

Not much...looking for a place to dump
all this scrap metal I have laying around
the house

Where?

We Must Be
Doing Something Right!
Awesome
metal!

One can only imagine what Henry
Cattell might have envisioned for this
land when he built his stone cabin
among the thick scrub, at the top of
this once barren mountain. But for
certain, he was willing to share this
land and this view with any visitor who
might make the trek to the summit
of Camelback Mountain. He would be
pleased Big Pocono State Park affords
visitors that same opportunity today. P

APS RECYCLING

2 Katz Rd. Stroudsburg, PA 18360
www.apsrecycling.com

www.DreherInsurance.com

We would like to thank the folks at
Pennsylvania Recreation and Parks
magazine and Pennsylvania Forests
magazine, where this article has
been previously published, for their
permission to allow us to re-print it
here in Pocono Living Magazine. And,
a very special thank you to Mr. Rex
Lord of the PA DCNR for his assistance
in helping us to secure these
permissions.
Our thanks to Vinzon Lee, Senior Staff
Photographer, for his fantastic photos.
Friends of Big Pocono
Board of Directors
John Motz – Chairperson
Cheryl Peechatka-Hoffman
Ann Harmon
Kathleen Hinton
Karen Layton
Betty Kruk
Kim Ernsberger
Randy Hoffman

oday’s car owners are keeping their vehicles on
the road longer, and it’s not uncommon to find
autos with odometer readings of 200,000, 300,000
or more. While increasingly common, that kind
of longevity still merits bragging rights. So how can you
reach the six-figure mile-mark? The answer is as simple
as listening to your car, following a regular maintenance
schedule and asking yourself these questions:
n Does your car pull to one side when you’re driving down
a straight road? If it does, check your tires for uneven wear
that could pull your vehicle out of alignment.

n Do your brakes squeal when you are slowing down
to stop? It’s a tell-tale sign they are beginning to wear.
Your vehicle may need brake fluid, or new brake pads.
Never allow your brakes get to the point that you hear
grinding. That sound of metal contacting metal can mean
costly repairs to the rotors and replacement of the brakes
themselves.

n Do you hear a whine when you start your car? Belts
and hoses don’t last forever, and that’s why it’s important
to check them for cracks, tears and overall wear. Simple
and relatively inexpensive repairs of a hose or belt could
prevent catastrophic damage to you engine or radiator.
While these are things you can take care of by sight
or sound, you cannot easily see the inner-workings of
your vehicle’s engine. This is why it is important to use
products that will protect your vehicle on the inside as
well.
Premium synthetic lubricant manufacturer Royal
Purple offers motor oil specifically formulated for
high mileage vehicles with their proprietary additive
technology Synerlec and zinc/phosphorus anti-wear
additives. Available in 5W30 and 10W30 viscosities, Royal
Purple’s HMX minimizes wear and restores lost engine
performance, extends drain intervals, reduces engine
deposits and provides superior corrosion protection.
It’s no easy task to keep your vehicle on the road once
you hit the 100,000-mile mark but paying attention to the
signs your car may be showing you and protecting the
main components under the hood will hopefully stay on
the road for miles to come. P

pring season is a time of regeneration and renewal as you prepare to
bring life back to your lawn and garden. Taking the proper steps after
seasonal changes or severe weather conditions can prove to be the
difference between creating a breathtaking landscape or an outdoor space with
unsightly mishaps. By following a few simple steps, you can take pride in your
backyard year after year.

foundation for a successful planting and growing season.
“The right tools can make all the difference in creating a
lawn that leaves a lasting impression,” says Alan Luxmore,
host of A&E’s hit television show Fix This Yard. “Arm
yourself with tools that are not only durable, but easy
to use. Complete watering systems such as LeakFree by
Nelson, offer a turn-key watering experience from start
to finish, allowing gardeners more time to revel in their
landscaping successes.”

Bring new life into the garden
Once your soil is permeable, it should be prepped for
the upcoming planting season by removing dead leaves
and plants that may have been left over from the previous
season. Use a rotary tiller to break up and aerate hard soil.
Once the old material has been removed from the work
area and your soil is ready, begin planting your new plants,
flowers, vegetables and grass. You can also help your trees,
bushes and even certain plants have a more robust look
by trimming them back to encourage new bud growth.

Establish a regular watering regimen
One of the most important steps to maintaining a
healthy lawn and garden is providing it with the proper
nutrients. Using a hose for daily irrigation seems simple
but without the proper watering set up, your efforts
could be futile. A proper watering guide and the following
tips from the watering experts at Nelson can increase
efficiency and bring you one step closer to creating a yard
with envious curb appeal.
* Give your greens a thorough soaking once in a while
to produce extended and robust roots.
* The best time to water is in the morning, when the
air is cool and moist. The warmth of the sun and the
rising temperature gently dries the grass and the
leaves on the plants. And since morning air is damp,
you don’t waste water through evaporation.
* Follow a regular watering schedule to discourage
bugs by providing them with an inhospitable
environment. Insects, with the possible exception of
the water bug, aren’t terribly fond of water.
* To be certain your lawn is hydrated adequately when
it has failed to rain, the standard rule of thumb is to
sprinkle one inch of water per week.
* Use a complete guaranteed leak-free system such
as LeakFree by Nelson in order to conserve water in
drought conditions, save money and stay dry.
For additional watering and gardening tips, and to learn
more about LeakFree technology, visit www.facebook.com/
NelsonWateringAndGardening. P

Eight ways to get the
most out of your trip
to the farmers market
When spring arrives, leaves, flowers and robins aren’t the only signs of
warm weather to reappear. Spring also heralds the return of farmers markets.
A trip to the market is a great opportunity to indulge in fresh healthy produce
and to expand your horizons by trying new items or preparing them in
different ways.
Here are eight tips to make the most of your visit to the local farmers
market:
n Note the hours and dates of your local market on your calendar. Set
reminders on your smartphone that will alert you when favorite items such as
tomatoes, peas, beans and strawberries come into season.
n Prepare your refrigerator and kitchen for the season’s harvest. Clean out your
fridge’s produce drawer, and stock up on items that complement fresh produce,
such as salad dressings and seasonings that can be used to turn basic veggies
into delicious meals. Make sure to choose organic options, such as Simply
Organic’s Greek Yogurt Dips (great for broccoli and cauliflower florets).
n While farmers market vendors will almost certainly have plastic bags on
hand, take your own reusable bags or baskets to carry your purchase - they’re
better for Mother Nature. If you’ll be buying perishable items, consider packing
a cooler as well. Remember to place heavier items (like melons) on the bottom
of the bag and lighter ones (such as berries) on top.

“

“

a unique assortment
of fine jewelry

Main Street Stroudsburg, PA
570-421-5081

n You’ll find the freshest produce and best selection early in the day. Setting
your alarm to wake you a bit early could ensure you get the pick of the day’s
produce.
n Leave the $20 and $50 bills at home. Smaller bills will provide you with
greater buying flexibility, and vendors will appreciate the change.
n Scope out the entire market before you begin making purchases. Certain
popular items, such as tomatoes, cantaloupe, melons, peas and potatoes will
be available from multiple vendors. Strolling through the market first will allow
you to compare prices and taste samples to ensure you’re picking the best and
most delicious buys for your family.
n Unpack bags as soon as you’re home and store each item appropriately.
Create a menu plan for the week that incorporates everything you’ve
purchased to help ensure nothing goes to waste. Don’t forget to incorporate
snacks into your meal plan.
n Every week, try something new. By all means, enjoy your familiar favorites,
but also add in new items like kohlrabi, chard or broccolini. Not sure how to
prepare something new? Seasonings are a great way to add flavor without fat.
Spice-filled marinades or rubs are a perfect complement to produce. Throw
your veggies on the grill to bring out the freshness. On its website, www.
simplyorganic.com, Simply Organic offers numerous flavorful fresh produce
recipes. P

Ingredients:
Use organic ingredients where possible.
2 ounces slivered almonds
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons Simply Organic adobo
seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Simply Organic paprika
Directions:
In a dry 8-inch skillet, toast the
almonds, stirring often, until fragrant
and lightly golden, about five to eight
minutes. Remove and pour the almonds
into a small bowl and set off to the side.
In a shallow dish, toss the asparagus
with the olive oil, adobo seasoning
and paprika.Preheat your grill. Real
wood charcoal tastes best, but gas
works fine. Avoid briquettes; they
make food taste like lighter fluid. Aim
for medium-high heat - if your grill lid
has a thermometer built into the lid, it
should read about 375 degrees.Once
hot, lay the asparagus perpendicular to
your grill grates and cook for eight to 10
minutes, turning once until fork tender
yet still firm.Serve on a platter topped
with toasted almond slivers.

Cherry Valley
Festival
On Saturday, June 14, the fourth annual
Cherry Valley Festival will be held to celebrate
the unique natural environmental qualities of
the valley and raise awareness of conservation
efforts underway.
The Brodhead Watershed Association
(BWA), a non-profit organization committed to
enhance public understanding of conservation
and water issues is organizing the event in
collaboration with the Josie Porter Farm. The
Festival, held at the Josie Porter Farm, 6514
Cherry Valley Road, Stroudsburg, PA., will run
from 10 AM to 5 PM, rain or shine. This will be
a fun-filled day with family activities designed
for the participation of children and adults.
Planned events include educational speakers,
nature walks, farm tours, demonstrations,
and environmentally themed vendors, arts
and crafts. In addition, there will be: food and
beverages available and a silent auction with
proceeds benefiting BWA. Live entertainment
throughout the day will be provided by strolling
musicians from the Pocono Bluegrass & Folk
Society. The festival is free to the public.
Admission is free; plenty of parking and a golf
cart shuttle service make it easy to get around.
Directions and more information on the Farm
and the Festival are available on the Farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
website: www.josieporterfarm.com
The Brodhead Watershed Association is a nonprofit environmental organization formed in 1989. BWA is
dedicated to protecting and preserving water resources and
the environment of the Brodhead watershed and the water
quality of the Brodhead, Cherry, Marshalls, McMichael,
Paradise and Pocono creeks and their tributaries. In
addition, the BWA assists municipalities, residents,
businesses and groups with protecting natural resources
through education, workshops, seminars, public programs
and stream monitoring.

Welcome to Pocono Living Magazine’s guide to
Restaurants, Diners, Bistros & Bars.
Have you ever seen the television series
“Diners, Drive - Ins & Dives” on The Food
Network channel?
Yea, we have too, and it’s very popular on the
cable network.

A Decade of Dedication, 10th Annual Festival of Wood,
comes to Grey Towers National Historic Site in Milford,
PA on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3. This
popular family-friendly event offers a variety of activities
and events that demonstrate the many ways people
use and enjoy wood in our everyday lives. Unique wood
crafts, children’s activities with wood, chainsaw carvings,
educational exhibits, live woodland wildlife, films, tree
pruning demonstrations, music created with wood and
much more will be offered on the grounds of the historic
estate throughout the weekend. There is no admission to
the festival grounds and most activities are free.

The Festival hours are 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday August 2 and 10 am to
4 pm Sunday August 3, rain or shine. For a schedule of events or more
information, call (570)296-9630 or email greytowers@fs.fed.us. Festival
programs and site maps are available at www.greytowers.org.

Three weeks later on August 23 & 24, the 28th annual
Pocono State Craft Festival will celebrates the heritage,
beauty and quality of Pennsylvania Crafts at beautiful
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm in Stroudsburg PA.
Crafts featured this year will include pottery, jewelry,
metal, stained glass, wood, baskets, paper, leather,
folk art, fine art, photography, and art-to-wear. Craft
demonstrations will captivate patrons and bring to life the
creative process – from raw material to finished product. .
The farm buildings, animals and beautiful gardens
of Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm will be open to give
visitors a taste of a by-gone era on a Pennsylvania German
farm. Additionally, patrons will enjoy the bluegrass and
gospel music of the Lost Ramblers and the Dixieland
sounds of the Dixie Gents.
Festival hours are 10 am – 6 pm on Saturday and 10 am – 5 pm on
Sunday, rain or shine. Admission is $6.00 for adults; children 12 and
under are admitted free. There is ample free parking. For directions and
a $1 off coupon, visit the show’s website at www.poconocrafts.com or
call 570-476-4460. P

utdoor kitchens are one of the hottest
trends for exterior home improvements
in 2014, a survey by the American Society
of Landscape Architects reveals. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re
considering creating a backyard kitchen this year, you may
be wondering how much of the work you can do yourself
in order to get the most out of your budget. Fortunately,
many aspects of the job are within the abilities of the
average do-it-yourselfer, and resources like rental stores
mean you can easily obtain the tools you need to get the
job done.

Your first step is to assess your outdoor space, decide
where your kitchen will be and determine how much
area you can dedicate to it. Will you start from scratch,
perhaps creating a patio of pavers or building a new deck
to accommodate the kitchen? Or will existing structures
provide a starting point?
Next, seek inspiration. Resources like Pinterest,
YouTube, home improvement shows and outdoor living
websites can provide ideas and insight into current design
trends in outdoor kitchens. Gathering ideas can help you
decide what elements your kitchen must have - such as
a multi-burner stove and ample lighting for nighttime
entertaining - and what might be on your list of possible
features, like a wet bar or built-in seating around the
kitchen.

Designing your
outdoor kitchen
Once you know where your
outdoor kitchen will go and what
features you will include, it’s time
to start laying out your plans. Plenty
of online tools are available to help
you design an outdoor living space,
including the kitchen of your dreams.
You’ll need to consider many
factors, including the dimensions
and layout of your outdoor kitchen,
materials you will use and how you will
landscape around it. Popular building
materials include pavers, stone, wood
or composite materials, and each
imparts its own look to your outdoor
entertaining area.

The building process

Rental Association member store is
a cost-effective way to obtain the
equipment you need without a longterm investment of money and storage
space. To find a rental store in your
area, visit www.rentalhq.com.
Tool rental can also ease another
reality of DIY construction - the ability
to work around your schedule and at
your own pace. Renting tools means
you can get what you need when
you need it, without having large or
expensive pieces lying around when
not in use.
Give yourself plenty of time to
work on your outdoor kitchen, and
don’t be afraid to seek help. Friends
and family can pitch in on basic tasks,
but some higher-level jobs - such as
installing a gas line for a built-in range
- may require professional help. P

While most homeowners will
have at least some of the tools needed
to complete an outdoor kitchen,
it’s likely you’ll be missing others.
Renting tools through an American
CONTENT: BPT

ith a winter that never seems to end,
families are aching to enjoy some fun in
the sun, turning their attention to a well-deserved
getaway.
According to a recent Bank of America survey,
46 percent of Americans plan on hitting the road
and organizing family-friendly vacations this year.
But nearly half of these survey respondents, 48
percent, said the most difficult part of planning a
trip is managing a budget.

Fun, Affordable Vacations
Travel Channel host Samantha Brown has
trekked the globe and is an ace at keeping costs
low while maximizing adventure. She shares a few
budget saving tips for the millions of Americans
looking to take a family vacation and ensure
lasting memories.
“When you start researching vacation
destinations, it’s important to keep in mind that a
good rewards card can help to offset travel costs,”
Brown said. “I find that using credit cards like the
BankAmericard Travel Rewards credit card gives
you great flexibility in how to use your points to
cover travel expenses ... more than just for flights.
You can book your travel whenever, however you
choose so there are no restrictions or blackouts.”

Destination, Destination, Destination
The majority of survey respondents said they
are headed towards easy to access, family-friendly
destinations like beaches, theme parks and zoos.
Sixty three percent of respondents said car trips
are the preferred mode of travel because they
are easier on the budget and also ensure that the
vacation will be an adventure.

Families are increasingly looking for ways
to stretch the dollar. Half of the survey
respondents agreed that hotels and lodging
generally eat up most of the budget. Search for
ways to save in other places by being flexible with
dates or traveling to locations that are off the
beaten path. You can use rewards points you’ve
accumulated towards lodging or airfare expenses.
Some travel rewards credit cards let you use
points to “pay yourself back” for any type of travel
purchase through a statement credit. You can even
use points to pay for theme park tickets and camp
sites.

Budget-Friendly
Travel Tips

Pay with Your Card
Most families (77 percent) pay for purchases
during vacations with credit cards. This not only
minimizes the amount of cash or travelers checks
you should carry, but it allows you to offset costs.
Since most places accept credit cards, think about
using a rewards card for big ticket expenses like
gas, theme park admission and hotels. If you use a
rewards credit card for those purchases, it frees up
cash for smaller expenses and also accumulates
points that you can use on your next vacation.
Look for a card like the BankAmericard Travel
Rewards card where you can earn 1.5 points for
every dollar spent on purchases, every time. Then
these points can be used to get a statement credit
to cover your flights, hotels, vacation packages,
cruises, rental cars or baggage fees.

CONTENT: FAMILY FEATURES

JUNE/JULY 2014 POCONO LIVING MAGAZINEÂŠ 29

Adopt a Cat Month®
Brought to you in June by
American Humane Association

Top Ten Checklist
for Adopting a Cat

Thinking of adopting a cat? First, check out these helpful tips,
gathered by American Humane Association.​

✓If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two. Cats require
exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Two cats can provide this
for each other. Plus they’ll provide more benefits to you. Cats’ purring has been
shown to soothe humans as well as themselves – and they have an uncanny
ability to just make you smile. A great place to start your search is online. Sites like
petfinder.com let you search numerous shelters in your area simultaneously to
help narrow your search and more quickly find the match that’s right for you and
your new feline friend.

✓Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule
a visit within the first few days following the adoption.
You’ll want to take any medical records you received from
the adoption center on your first visit. Kittens in particular
should accompany you to make the appointment – even
before the exam itself – so staff can pet the cat and tell
you that you’ve chosen the most beautiful one ever.

✓Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have
a cat before it comes home. Visiting the shelter or animal
control facility should be a family affair. When adopting
a new cat with existing pets at home, discuss with the
adoption facility how to make a proper introduction.

✓Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat.
Understand any pet is a responsibility and there’s a
cost associated with that. A cat adopted from a shelter
is a bargain; many facilities will have already provided
spaying or neutering, initial vaccines, and a microchip for
permanent identification.

✓Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives. Be prepared
so your new cat can start feeling at home right away. Your
cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls,
food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy
bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers.

✓Cat-proof your home. A new cat will quickly teach
you not to leave things lying out. Food left on the kitchen
counter will serve to teach your new friend to jump
on counters for a possible lunch. Get rid of loose items
your cat might chew on, watch to ensure the kitten isn’t
chewing on electric cords, and pick up random items like
paper clips (which kittens may swallow).

✓Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends
and family. It can take several weeks for a cat to relax
in a new environment. It’s a great idea to keep the new
addition secluded to a single room (with a litter box, food
and water, toys, and the cat carrier left out and open
with bedding inside) until the cat is used to the new
surroundings; this is particularly important if you have
other pets. If you’ve adopted a kitten, socialization is very
important. But remember – take it slow.

✓Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s
emergency plan. You probably have a plan in place for
getting your family to safety in case of an emergency.
Adjust this plan to include your pets. Add phone numbers
for your veterinarian and closest 24-hour animal hospital
to your “in-case-of-emergency” call list.

the recipient is an active participant in the adoption
process. Though well-meaning, the surprise kitty gift
doesn’t allow for a “get-to know-one-another” period.
Remember, adopting a cat isn’t like purchasing a
household appliance or a piece of jewelry – this is a real
living, breathing, and emotional being. P

June & July at Pocono
Environmental
Education Center
The Pocono Environmental Education Center
(PEEC) is located at 538 Emery Road,
Dingmans Ferry, PA. You can call them at
570-828-2319, or visit their website at
www.peec.org for more information on their
programming.

Wild Edibles Walk

Saturday, June 14, 2014, 10:00am-12:00pm. Nature
provides food for us in the form of many plants. Join
us on a hike focused on wild edibles. No collecting will
be done within the Park. Call to reserve a seat in the
van. $10

Family Fishing
Wild Edibles Walk )

Sunday, June 01, 2014, 10:00am-12:00pm. Nature
provides food for us in the form of many plants. Join
us on a hike focused on wild edibles. No collecting will
be done within the Park. Call to reserve a seat in the
van. $10

From Friday, June 13, 2014 To Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Join Kathy Peoples, Professional Photographer &
Educator, and learn how to pinpoint focus, blur the
background, saturate colors, use Photoshop, and
more. Relax in the Poconos while learning from
an amazing teacher. Includes lodging and meals!
Day rates are available. Call for details. $205 / $155
commuter rate

Sunday, June 15, 2014, 10:00am-12:00pm. Learn the
basics of fishing and then try your luck on our ponds.
We provide all of the equipment. Supervised children
only, please. No fishing licenses required. Spaces
limited. Call to reserve a spot. $5 adult / $10 child

Pond Explorers

Sunday, June 15, 2014, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Join us as we
explore the ponds with nets! We’ll collect fish, macroinvertebrates, amphibians, and anything else we find
in some buckets, for up-close study. Wear boots and
plan on getting a little wet and muddy! Register early!
$5 per person

Expedition River Trip with River Guides

From Friday, June 20, 2014 To Sunday, June 22, 2014 .
An experience of a lifetime! Enjoy the summer solstice
with a camping trip along the Delaware River! Spend
Friday afternoon at PEEC, preparing for the trip and
learning canoe camping skills. Canoe all day on
Saturday and spend the night at a primitive campsite.
No experience necessary – professional canoe guides

will teach you everything you need to know. Includes
lodging on Friday night, meals from Friday lunch
to Sunday lunch, tents, sleeping bags, and group
camping equipment. Call for details. $260 adult / $195
child

PRO SERIES: Small Mammals

Saturday, June 28, 2014, 6:00pm-9:00pm. Learn
from the experts. Join Dr. Howard Whidden, professor
at East Stroudsburg University, for an-depth look
at the mice, moles, voles and shrews of our area.
Use live mammals and taxidermy mounts to learn
identification tips. Includes evening study of bats and
their echolocation calls. $20 ($70 for All 4 Pro Series
Sessions)

Summer Canoe Paddle

Sunday, June 29, 2014, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Start summer
off the right way! Paddle a canoe…and try out our
new kayaks! Beginners are welcome – we teach you
everything you need to know. Dress appropriately
– you may get wet. Call to reserve a canoe. $5 per
person

“Celebration with a Bang” Family Nature
Getaway Weekend

From Thursday, July 03, 2014 to Sunday, July 06,
2014. Bring your friends and family to experience
the best of what PEEC has to offer. Nature hikes,
animal presentations, swimming, canoeing, fireworks,
campfire and more! Price includes three nights
lodging and meals from Thursday dinner to Sunday
lunch. Adults $210 / Child, Commuter, Day Rates
Available

Frog Frolic

Saturday, July 12, 2014, 01:00pm - 03:00pm. Join us
for a fun afternoon at the ponds and streams! Learn
about some of our frog friends as we gently catch and
release these hopping amphibians. Wear boots and
plan on getting a little wet and muddy! $5 per person

Moonlit Drumming

Saturday, July 12, 2014, 06:30pm - 09:30pm
Master drummer Maxwell Kofi Donkor, is back
for another unforgettable experience. Enjoy an
introductory lesson and a drumming circle under
the moonlit sky. Don’t miss this great event! No
experience necessary. Call to reserve a drum. $30
adult / $15 child

Frog Frenzy

Sunday, July 13, 2014, 10:00am - 12:00pm. Join us
for a fun morning at the ponds and streams! Learn
about some of our frog friends as we gently catch and
release these hopping amphibians. Wear boots and
plan on getting a little wet and muddy! $5 per person

Summer Canoe Paddle

Saturday, July 19, 2014, 10:00am - 12:00pm. Start
summer off the right way! Paddle a canoe…and try out
our new kayaks! Beginners are welcome – we teach
you everything you need to know. Dress appropriately
– you may get wet. Call to reserve a canoe. $5

Nature at Night

Saturday, July 19, 2014, 08:00pm - 09:30pm. A
summer evening is the perfect time to head outside.
Take a walk in the woods, listen for frogs and look at
the stars. Free for members / $5 for non-members

Summer Canoe Paddle

Sunday, July 20, 2014, 10:00am - 12:00pm. Start
summer off the right way! Paddle a canoe…and try out
our new kayaks! Beginners are welcome – we teach
you everything you need to know. Dress appropriately
– you may get wet. Call to reserve a canoe. $5

Gardening: Vertical Gardens

Sunday, July 20, 2014, 01:00pm - 03:00pm. Join the
Pike County Master Gardeners for an introductory
class on creating vertical gardens. This is a great
forum for sharing gardening tips and ideas. $5

www.poconoymca.org

Wild Edibles Walk

Saturday, July 26, 2014, 10:00am - 12:00pm. Nature
provides food for us in the form of many plants. Join
us on a hike focused on wild edibles. No collecting will
be done within the Park. Call to reserve a seat in the
van. $10

Butterfly Walk

Sunday, July 27, 2014, 01:00pm - 03:00pm. Learn
about the wonderful world of butterflies! Join David
Trently on a search through the fields and around
the ponds for butterflies and dragonflies. Call early –
spaces fill up fast! $5

in the Gap
Dutot Museum & Gallery Exhibitions
570-476-4240 or www.dutotmuseum.com
Open Saturday and Sunday 1-5pm
June 14- June 29 Riv11 – The Delaware River – A Big Picture
Opening Reception: Friday, June 13, 7-9pm
July 5-July 20 Women’s Show
Opening reception: Friday July 11, 7-9pm

Founder’s Day Celebration in the historic
Borough of Delaware Water Gap
www.delawarewatergap.com
Saturday, June 28 - 8am - 4pm
The holiday celebrates both the town’s history and Antoine
Dutot, the founder of Dutotsburg today’s Delaware Water Gap.
This year’s event is jammed-packed with activities for all ages:
Antique Car Show
Art Vendors
Appalachian Trail Town Dedication Ceremony
Live Music
Duck race in Cherry Creek
Children’s Activities
Steamtown Train

Fourth of July Festivities and Fireworks
Water Gap Country Club, 288 Mountain Road,
570-431-0585 or www.watergapcountryclub.com
Friday, July 4

Where in the
Watershed Hikes:
The Brodhead Watershed Association and the Pocono Heritage Land Trust are
sponsoring a series of monthly “Where in the Watershed” walks to little known places
throughout the Brodhead Creek Watershed.
Where in the Watershed Walk #5
Summer Solstice on the Swiftwater
Sunday, June 22 from 1:00 to 4:00
Join BWA/PHLT members/friends and naturalist Don Miller and BWA/SLP Member
Peter Gonze for this first walk of Summer along the Swiftwater on the grounds of Lake
Swiftwater Club (LSC).
This moderate difficulty hike will be on level and sloped terrain both on and off
trail around the lake, along the stream and into the woodland location of the historic
campgrounds on Swiftwater Lake Preserve property. Depending on the weather
conditions and water levels this may also involve some wet foot walking, so be prepared
with appropriate summer wet foot wear. The Swiftwater Creek will provide an opportunity
for participants to see and explore the wildlife found in and around this exceptional wild
trout stream and learn of the effort involved in protecting and managing private open
space lands and aquatic resource amenities.
Participants should meet in the parking area of the Paradise Township Municipal
Building on Rt. 940 in Paradise Valley (for directions call PHLT). * Hike is $5.00 per person
($3.00 per BWA/PHLT member) to be collected at the start of the hike. Hike registration
recommended. To register for this hike, please call the Pocono Heritage Land Trust (PHLT)
office or email info@phlt.org.
Where in the Watershed Walk #6
Slaughterhouse Bend on McMichael’s Creek
Saturday, July 12 from 1:00 to 4:00
Join BWA/PHLT members/friends and naturalist Don Miller and BWA member and
Glenbrook Grounds Manager, Jeff Feick for this streamside and woodland exploration of
this Stroud Township open space natural area on the edge of Glenbrook Country Club and
the banks of the scenic McMichael’s Creek at Slaughterhouse Bend.
This moderate difficulty hike will be on and off trail on both level and sloped terrain.
Participants will see and learn some of the history of the namesake for this site, explore
a limestone spine of the Godfrey’s ridge geology and identify numerous calcium loving
plants and riparian buffers associated with this unique subwatershed of the Brodhead
Creek.

Photo: Marlana Holsten

Participants should meet in the parking area of the Hickory Valley Park along the
McMichael’s Creek on Hickory Valley Road in Stroud Township (for directions call PHLT).
* Hike is $5.00 per person ($3.00 per BWA/PHLT member) to be collected at the start of
the hike. Hike registration recommended. To register for this hike, please call the Pocono
Heritage Land Trust (PHLT) office or email info@phlt.org.
Chasing Wild Trout - Fly Fishing Basics
For those interested in learning the basics of Fly Fishing. Presented by Don Baylor,
and friends from Trout Unlimited. Time and registration information TBA
When: Sat Jun 28, 2014 1pm – 4pm Eastern Time. Where: ForEvergreen Nature
Preserve, Stroud, PA, United States

June & July Programs
at Monroe County
Environmental
Education Center
The Monroe County Conservation District’s Environmental Education Center, at Kettle
Creek Wildlife Sanctuary on Running Valley Road near Bartonsville, offers many educational programs year-round. Visit their website at www.mcconservation.org or call 570629-3061 for more information.

Amphibian & Reptile Ramble

June 7 - Saturday - Join Environmental Educator
Brian Hardiman from 10 a.m. to noon for a fun and
educational morning searching for Kettle Creek’s
salamanders, frogs, turtles, and snakes. We will learn
about the habits of these fascinating creatures and
submit our findings to the Pennsylvania Amphibian
and Reptile Survey, a state-wide effort documenting
the status and distribution of these animals. Cost:
$5/non-member, $3/children under 12. EE Center
members free.

Art Opening: Lillian Ventrelli Watercolors and Acrylics

June 7 - Saturday - Art Opening: Lillian Ventrelli Watercolors and Acrylics - When Lillian and her
husband, Sal, moved to the Poconos, she was amazed
by the natural and majestic beauty of the Poconos.
This beauty is what she has strived to capture in her
paintings. She enrolled in several watercolor classes
offered through her community, and was hooked.
In the past several years, Lillian has expanded her
repertoire to include acrylics. Opening Reception: 11
a.m. - 1 p.m.

Amphibians and Reptiles of the
Bog at 1 p.m

June 10 - Tuesday - Join us on an official survey of the
Tannersville Bog property’s amphibians and reptiles.
Sightings will be submitted to the Pennsylvania
Amphibian and Reptile Survey (PARS), a state-wide
project documenting the status and distribution of
these animals. Cost: $6/non-member, $4/EE Center or
Nature Conservancy members and children under 12.
Pre-registration is required.

Canoe/Kayak Trip at the Bog

June 12 - Thursday - Join us on a paddling trip into the
Bog Preserve on Cranberry Creek. The program lasts
3 hours. Participants are required to provide their
own kayak or canoe. Meet at the Bog parking lot at 10
a.m. Cost: $6/non-member, $4/EE Center or Nature
Conservancy members and children under 12. Preregistration is required.

“Life in Swink Pond”

visit: www.GriswoldHomeCare.com

June 14 - Saturday - The EE Center will sponsor a
family oriented program in conjunction with “National
Get Outdoors Day” focusing on discovering the living
creatures in Swink pond at Kettle Creek. There are
many unusual life forms in a freshwater pond and we
will have buckets, and nets for everyone to capture
some of the fascinating aquatic creatures. We will
discuss their life cycles and return them to the pond.
Participants are encouraged to wear shoes that may
get muddy during our search. The 2 hour program
begins at 10 a.m. Cost: $5/non-members, $3/children
under 12. EE Center members free.

Kestrel Field Trip

June 18 - Wednesday - The American Kestrel is one of
North America’s smallest and most colorful raptors.
Join Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman and
Jacobsburg State Park’s Rick Wiltraut in surveying
kestrel nest boxes while learning about the
ecology and conservation of this beautiful falcon.
Participants will observe adult kestrels while having
the opportunity to photograph nestlings. We will
meet at the EE Center at 8:30 a.m. and return at 5:30
p.m. Cost: $24/non-member, $18/EE Center member

and includes van transportation.
Lunch, water, binoculars, and camera
should be packed. Pre-registration
and payment required and limited.
Refunds will be given only if
notification is given at least one week
in advance.

Birding the Thomas Darling
Preserve

June 19 - Thursday - The Thomas
Darling Preserve has it all. At its heart
there is a tamarack bog surrounded
by a mosaic of wetland and upland
habitats. Here the song of the lyrical
hermit thrush competes with the
boisterous white-throated sparrows
singing, “Ooooooooooooh, Canada,
Canada, Canada.” Join Environmental
Educator Darryl Speicher for this
morning of birding fun. Participants
will meet at the Kettle Creek Wildlife
Sanctuary in Bartonsville and travel
to the preserve in the bus. The bus
will leave Kettle Creek at 7 a.m. and
return by 1 p.m. Wear shoes you don’t
mind getting wet. Cost: $20/nonmembers, $14/EE Center members.
Pre-registration and payment are
required and limited. Refunds will be
given only if notification is made at
least one week prior to the trip.

2014 BioBlitz

June 20-21 - Friday - Saturday - The
staff at the Conservation District is
pleased to announce another in the
series of BioBlitzes we have been
conducting since 2006. The BioBlitz
will begin at 3 p.m. Friday, and ends

24-hours later, Saturday, at 3 p.m. at
the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area,
Blakeslee, PA. A BioBlitz is a biological
survey that provides a “snapshot” of
what species are found on a given
piece of property. It also serves to
help increase the public awareness
of the variety of life and overall
biodiversity of an area. We usually
hear the word “biodiversity” in respect
to rainforests with their vast number
of species, yet the diversity of life in
our own back yard is phenomenal. We
take for granted clean water, fertile
soil, and air to breathe. Yet, these are
all the result of working ecosystems
filled with species that perform
various tasks to help make this
possible. What better way to address
the topic then to invite people to
become “Citizen Scientists” and
share in our 24-hours of discovery
and to experience the vast array of
species that we can find on just one
of the many open space properties in
Monroe County. We hope you can join
us at this exciting event

June - 28 - Saturday - Environmental
Educator Darryl Speicher loves birds.
On this walk he’ll talk about the
breeding behaviors of our native birds
as we look for nests and fledglings
along the trails of Kettle Creek. This 1
hour program begins at 11 a.m. Cost:
$5/non-members, $3/children under
12. EE Center members free.

The Monroe County Historical Association is pleased
to announce the “History in Bloom, a tour of Stroudsburg’s
gardens” fund-raiser on Saturday, June 21, 2014 from 9:00
a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Gardens located in Stroudsburg’s
Historic District and South Stroudsburg will be featured
on the tour. The “History in Bloom” garden tour will begin
at Bryant Park, which is located at the corner of Bryant
Street and Park Avenue (Route 191) in South Stroudsburg.
Ten gardens will be featured on the tour. Homeowners
and volunteers will be stationed in each garden to share
their knowledge, methods, ideas and materials used to
create their unique garden. Experienced gardeners will be
on-hand to answer gardening and landscape questions.
Advanced ticket sales are available at the Stroud
Mansion, 900 Main Street, Stroudsburg, PA and cost $15.00.
Day-of tickets will be available at the start of the “History
in Bloom” garden tour at Bryant Park beginning at 9:00
a.m. through noon and cost $20.00 per person.
Tickets for drawings of the newly designed Liztech
“Thanks a Bunch “garden pin, a $25.00 Liztech gift card,
and a basket of garden related items will be available for
purchase at the Bryant Park site. Also, Weber’s Rimrock
Gardens, 2217 Rimrock Drive, Stroudsburg, will donate a
percentage of sales on the day of the event to the Monroe
County Historical Association.

For additional information or to purchase your tickets,
please contact the Monroe County Historical Association
at (570) 421-7703 or e-mail mcha@ptd.net.
The mission of the Monroe County Historical
Association is to promote, protect and preserve the rich
history of Monroe County. Visit our Web site at www.
MonroeHistorical.org

Join us at The Lounge in Bartonsville, Friday, June 27th, 2014 from 5-8
for Happy Hour including our signature cocktail “The Hope Explosion Martini,”
a live DJ, “Margaret” the Pink Firetruck, more great raffle prizes, and other surprises!
Plus! Marshalls Creek Chiropractic will be giving massages for a $10.00 donation to the Fund.
You need not be present to win.
All money raised going to the Hope for Strength Breast Cancer Fund. The purpose of the fund
is to minimize the financial and emotional impact of breast cancer diagnoses and treatment.
The Hope for Strength Breast Cancer Fund will provide up to $500 to both male and female
patients of the Dale and Frances Hughes Cancer Center for basic living expenses. Basic living
expenses include rent, food/groceries, gas, child care, utilities and medicines.

More than a new weight... A NEW LIFE!
Laparoscopic and Bariatric Services
Our Bariatric Services Team is here to provide you with Board certified surgeons
and medical staff, the latest technology in weight loss surgery, and expert,
compassionate care as you take your journey through this transformation.
Bariatric surgery is proven to be more effective over time than non-surgical
treatments and designed to ensure gradual and long-term weight loss. Should you
qualify for bariatric surgery, our team will work with you from start to finish on
your weight loss goals.

Different Types of Bariatric Surgery:
PMC performs three types of procedures, each designed to meet your goal of
weight loss. All procedures are performed through small incisions in the abdomen.

Your Bariatric
Team
Nicolas Teleo, MD
Board certified by the American
Board of Surgery and specializes in
laparoscopic and bariatric surgery

Gina Santiago, PA-C
Board certified by the National
Commission on Certification of
Physician Assistants

 Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass
Stomach reduced to the size of a golf ball
Small intestine is bypassed and reconnected to new smaller stomach

 Laparoscopic Adjustable Band
Silicon band placed around top of stomach
Adjustments made in the first year to aid in weight loss

 Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Stomach is cut and stapled, reducing it by 75-80%
With a smaller stomach, the feeling of fullness comes faster

Education & Support
PMC also offers education and support for those considering weight loss
surgery or post-surgery patients.
Our free monthly support groups are held at PMC usually every second and
fourth Thursday of the month from 6-7pm.